As a speech-language pathologist, improving outcomes for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) and medical complexity is likely at the forefront of your practice. A recent study titled Measure what matters: considerations for outcome measurement of care coordination for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and medical complexity provides valuable insights that can enhance your care coordination strategies. Below, we delve into the key findings and their implications for practitioners.
Understanding the Research
This study, conducted in Alberta, Canada, employed a multilevel model variant of the triangulation mixed methods design to evaluate the impact of a care coordination (CC) project on family quality of life, resource use, and care integration. The researchers used linked administrative data, pre-post survey datasets, and qualitative interviews to capture the nuances of children with NDD and their families.
Key Findings
- Reduction in Emergency Department Visits: The study observed a 31.9% reduction in emergency department (ED) visits, translating to a 40.1% reduction in associated costs.
- Decrease in Hospital Stays: The total length of stay (LOS) in hospitals was reduced by 52.6%, resulting in significant cost savings.
- Improved Caregiver Resources: Caregivers reported a significant increase in access to resources, which enabled them to care more independently for their children.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Families reported improvements in quality of life and functional abilities, although variability was high across different households.
Implications for Practice
The study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care coordination. Here are some actionable steps you can take based on the research findings:
- Facilitate Access to Resources: Ensure families are aware of available resources and assist them in navigating complex systems to access these resources effectively.
- Engage Families in Care Planning: Involve families in care planning to improve the quality of care integration. This can reduce parental stress and improve overall family satisfaction.
- Adopt a Multilevel Approach: Consider the broader economic, policy, social, and environmental influences when measuring outcomes. This holistic view can provide a more accurate assessment of care coordination impacts.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides a robust framework for evaluating care coordination, it also underscores the need for ongoing research. Future studies should consider longer periods of health service utilization before and after care coordination interventions to capture sustained impacts. Additionally, including diverse populations, such as immigrant and Indigenous families, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of care coordination needs and outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Measure what matters: considerations for outcome measurement of care coordination for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and medical complexity.
